St. Catharines, ON – When CUPE 1287 put out a call for donations to support families facing food insecurity, dozens of workers of the local companies responded with food and money. That generosity, amounting to 800 pounds, will be delivered by CUPE 1287 members to The Hope Centre in Welland on April 16.
The donation is part of CUPE 1287’s Strong Public Services – Strong Communities campaign and it comes at a time of significant economic uncertainty and turmoil in the Niagara Region. Food insecurity has surged in recent years, and Niagara Region food bank usage reached all time highs in 2025. As the provincial government moves to reduce the voice of local residents and workers with strong chair powers, CUPE 1287 members are focused on giving back to their community.
The workers at The Hope Centre are also members of CUPE 1287. The donation is made on their behalf and on behalf of other CUPE 1287 members, including those who work at: Canadian Mental Health Association, Town of Lincoln, Town of Pelham, City of Port Colborne, Township of Wainfleet, Township of West Lincoln, Humane Society of Greater Niagara, John Howard Society of Niagara, Niagara SPCA and Humane Society, Port Colborne Public Library, Regional Municipality of Niagara, and St. Catharines Museum.
Media are invited to attend, capture visuals of the donation, and speak with participants.
WHAT: Food donation drop-off and media availability
WHO: Brenda Cervantes, CUPE 1287 President
Jon Braithwaite, The Hope Centre CEO
WHEN: April 16, 3:30 pm
WHERE: The Hope Centre, Welland
Quotes:
“At a time when the voices of workers and residents are being sidelined, our members are stepping up in a different way, supporting our neighbours directly. This donation gives back to the community and honours the important work that CUPE 1287 members do at The Hope Centre everyday. It’s part of our labour activism and reflects the values we hold dear as public sector workers.”
-Brenda Cervantes, President, CUPE 1287
“We are incredibly grateful to CUPE 1287 members and everyone who supported this drive for their generosity and solidarity. Donations like this make a real difference for the individuals and families we serve every day. Community support, especially in difficult economic times, is essential and this contribution will help when so many are feeling the strain.”
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For more information, contact:
Jesse Mintz, CUPE Communications Representative
416-704-9642 | [email protected]
:aa/COPE491
